2 weeks in costa rica

It would be easy to assume Costa Rica can't be experienced in just 2 short weeks, especially considering it's fairly far away for anyone outside the US. Yes, it's true you won't be able to see everything in this short amount of time, but you might be surprised by how much you can pack in.

If you can find a reasonable flight, this beautiful country was one of my favourite solo female travel trips and definitely should not be missed. Not only did I spend time working with a turtle conservation project, but I managed to see and experience lots of other locations along the way.

What's more, it was super easy to get around and I didn't feel unsafe at any point (with the exception of San Jose which is noted below).

Here's how you could spend 2 weeks as a solo female traveller:

Day 1: San Jose

Depending on your preferences, you may just choose to stay here one night before heading off to your first destination. While the city is bustling during the day, it's not advisable to walk around after dark - particularly alone. If you do find yourself with a day here, you can enjoy some awesome White Water Rafting trips. ​

Day 2-8: Turtle conservation

Costa Rica is famous for it's wildlife and many

people choose to volunteer for Turtle Conservation projects.

Of course there are many to choose from, but choose wisely to avoid being caught in a tourist trap. La Tortuga Feliz can't be highly recommended enough. There are a few options for how to get there - either independently via bus or you can stay at their hostel in San Jose beforehand. Either way, the ultimate journey to the project takes you on a river boat to the mouth of the ocean and an isolated Caribbean beach - the home of the conservation project covering 10km of coastline. This affordable conservation project includes 3 meals a day (the food is delicious!) and the best host possible, Robert. Turn off your phone, leave the wifi behind and get back to nature as you patrol the beaches, save turtle eggs and guard them in the hatchery before watching these incredible creatures head to the ocean. The project relies on volunteers and the experience is one that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Day 9-10: La Fortuna

After an amazing week volunteering, head by bus from San Jose to La Fortuna to indulge in some adrenaline rush activities such as zip-lining and canyoning. Those who climb Cerro Chato Volcano will be rewarded with a swim in the crater at the top. Most tours will also take you to the hot springs.

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Day 11-12: Monteverde

Get your head in the clouds in Monteverde's vast forests. Suspension bridges take you into the Cloud Forest Reserve, home to some incredible flora and fauna.

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Day 13-15: Manuel Antonio

From Monteverde, you may want to spend some time on one of the many amazing beaches that this country has to offer. Jaco is popular with tourists but if you have time and fancy something a little less crowded then Manuel Antonio is a great alternative. Simply book a private bus from Monteverde.

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Day 15-16: San Jose and depart

Hop on the bus back to San Jose in plenty of time to catch your flight back.